Amid a diplomatic row between India and the Maldives, the Maldives Association of Tour and Travel Operators (MATATO) has extended an appeal to EaseMyTrip, an India-based travel aggregator, urging the platform to reinstate flight bookings to the picturesque island nation. The plea underscores the vital role of Indian tourists in bolstering the Maldivian economy and follows controversial comments made by Maldivian ministers about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators writes to EaseMyTrip CEO Nishant Pitti to re-open flight bookings to Maldives pic.twitter.com/ojCxpPar7b
— ANI (@ANI) January 9, 2024
MATATO’s heartfelt request, articulated in a statement addressed to EaseMyTrip CEO Nishant Pitti, expresses gratitude for the enduring friendship and partnership between the Maldives and India. It highlights the deep-rooted bonds that connect the nations, transcending politics. The association emphasizes the significance of Indian tourists, portraying them as cherished brothers and sisters contributing substantially to the success of the Maldivian tourism sector.
The appeal comes in the wake of EaseMyTrip’s decision to suspend flight bookings via its platform as a response to contentious remarks made by Maldivian ministers. MATATO urges the travel aggregator to look past these regrettable comments, which, according to the association, do not reflect the sentiments of Maldivians in general. The association encourages EaseMyTrip to consider the broader context and the enduring relationships between the people of the Maldives and India.
Indian tourists have played a pivotal role in the post-Covid recovery of the Maldivian tourism industry, topping the charts for foreign arrivals. Over two lakh Indian visitors were recorded in the past year, making them an indispensable force in the sector’s rejuvenation. Tourism constitutes over two-thirds of the Maldives’ GDP, employing approximately 44,000 Maldivians. MATATO underscores the potential adverse impact on the tourism-dependent economy, urging for unity and solidarity.
In solidarity with our nation, @EaseMyTrip has suspended all Maldives flight bookings ✈️ #TravelUpdate #SupportingNation #LakshadweepTourism #ExploreIndianlslands #Lakshadweep#ExploreIndianIslands @kishanreddybjp @JM_Scindia @PMOIndia @tourismgoi @narendramodi @incredibleindia https://t.co/wIyWGzyAZY
— Nishant Pitti (@nishantpitti) January 7, 2024
The statement issued by MATATO highlights the economic significance of Indian tourists, providing vital support to guest houses and small to medium-sized enterprises within the Maldives. Over the past two years, more than 4.5 lakh Indian tourists have traveled to the island nation, showcasing the enduring popularity of the Maldives among Indian travelers. The association calls on EaseMyTrip to reconsider its decision and resume facilitating travel to the Maldives, allowing Indian tourists to continue contributing to the nation’s economic well-being.
In expressing gratitude for the enduring friendship, MATATO appeals for a focus on unity and cooperation between the two nations. The association asserts that divisive actions and statements should be avoided, emphasizing the need for a harmonious relationship between the Maldives and India. The statement reinforces the idea that the bonds between the nations extend beyond transient political issues.
The ongoing diplomatic strain arose after three Maldivian ministers made critical comments about Prime Minister Modi, resulting in their suspension. The Maldives government deemed the remarks unacceptable, leading to a measured response from India. As the situation unfolds, MATATO’s plea serves as a testament to the interconnectedness of nations, transcending political differences for the collective benefit of their people.
